Apple AirPods 4 (ANC) vs Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation)
Apple AirPods 4 (ANC) ($179) vs Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation) ($74) — side-by-side specs, weight, pros and cons to help you pick the right audio.
Spec-by-spec
| Spec | Apple AirPods 4 (ANC) | Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $179 | $74 |
| Weight | 43.3g | 56.4g |
| Battery | 30h total | 4.5h ANC, 24h with case |
| ANC | Adaptive | Active + Transparency |
| Fit | Open | 3 silicone tip sizes |
| Chip | H2 | Apple H1 |
| Charging | — | Lightning, wireless Qi |
| Weight | — | 56.4g (Apple published: 5.4g bud x2 + 45.6g case) |
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods 4 (ANC)
- Open-fit ANC
- USB-C
- H2 chip
- Open fit ANC limited
- No wireless case (base)
Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation)
- First sealed-fit AirPods with real ANC
- Three tip sizes for an actual acoustic seal
- Wireless charging case standard, not an upsell
- Still handles calls and Transparency mode well
- No Adaptive Transparency or force-sensor stem swipe
- ANC trails every AirPods Pro that followed it
- Ear tips wear out and need replacing on a used pair
- No IP rating beyond basic sweat resistance
Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation) is the better value at $74. If weight matters most, Apple AirPods 4 (ANC) carries lighter at 43.3g. Both are part of our curated audio index — tap through to check current pricing.